Waterloo Helmet

Illustration

by British Museumpublished on 01 June 2019

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The "Waterloo Helmet" is an example of a ceremonial horned helmet from Celtic La Tene culture. The helmet was originally decorated with pieces of red glass, and would have been even more visually striking when it was made. It is impractical for use in combat, and was probably only used for ceremonial purposes, possibly in processions or parades.

The bronze helmet was made c. 150 - 50 BCE, and was found in the Thames River near the Waterloo Bridge, England. It is the only example of an Iron Age horned helmet to be found in Europe, and the only Iron Age helmet to be found in southern England. The Waterloo Helmet is on display in the British Museum in London.